Top Tips to De-escalate Conflict

Conflict can take many forms.

Whatever the nature of the conflict, it's in your interest to de-escalate it before it has a serious impact on your business. Dealing with the issues at an early stage can help you save time, money, and stress.

So, don't delay, and don't be afraid of difficult conversations, because the longer you leave it, the more difficult it's going to get!

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Tips to de-escalating workplace conflict

At some point you'll need to tackle conflict head on.

Whether it's between colleagues, employees and directors, or even directors and other directors, understanding how best to de-escalate and solve the issue is key.

Type of conflict:

Interpersonal - Can be due to anything under the sun, from work environment, personal matters, to a stolen sandwich from the fridge.

Leadership - Can be caused by friction or a clash of ideals in the day-to-day management of the workplace.

Interdependence - Often a result of one person's job or duties hinging on the completion of another's.

Varying work styles - Everyone works differentl. Some work fast, some slow; conflict can arise when two or more work styles clash.

When conflict occurs it:

Has a negative impact on performance, wastes management's time, and costs money (lost working days).

Five tips employers can follow to de-escalate conflict

1. Listen to all points of view and find the facts
2. Work with the employee to solve the problem
3. Is the conflict bullying or harassment? If so, follow the relevant policy
4. Work to build a united team
5. Find a way forward, not establishing fault

Expert support

If you're struggling to resolve conflict in your workplace, one of our Croner experts can come on-site and act as a mediator. Find out more by calling 01455 858 132.